Verizon Wireless Applauds Signing Of Hands-Free Law In California

OAKLAND, CA — Verizon Wireless, the only wireless carrier to actively support statewide legislation on driving while using a wireless phone, was present at today's signing ceremony for the California hands-free legislation championed by California State Senator Joseph Simitian. The following statement may be attributed to Michael Bagley, executive director-Public Policy, Verizon Wireless:

"Verizon Wireless has engaged in an ongoing effort to promote wireless safety while driving, in ways that include consumer education, work with device manufacturers, and support for statewide hands-free legislation, including the bill now law in California.

"We commend California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, State Senator Joseph Simitian and the entire state legislature for making hands-free use of wireless devices the law while driving in California. We particularly recognize Senator Simitian for his commitment to the issue, his persistence and his leadership in crafting a bill that acknowledges the benefits of a wireless device in an emergency, and, allows drivers to talk on the phone while keeping both hands on the wheel so long as traffic conditions permit. The senator's legislation, now law, serves the public interest and once again demonstrates to the nation California's foresight and its leaders' connection to California citizens."

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation's most reliable wireless network, serving 54.8 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, NJ, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

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